Network Rail seeks expressions of interest for £77.6m Wales & Western civils framework

Network Rail has issued an Expression of Interest (EOI) for a proposed £77.6M framework covering geotechnical and civil engineering works across its Wales and Western regions. The preliminary market engagement notice was published yesterday (20 August). It states that Network Rail intends to establish a multi-lot framework primarily supporting rock cutting remediation, earthwork drainage improvements and burrowing management activities. The framework will be divided into two lots, they are: Lot 1 – Wales: Rock Cutting & Drainage, with an estimated value of £40.8M. Lot 2 – Western: Rock Cutting & Drainage, with an estimated value of £36.8M. Suppliers can submit a tender for both lots but no supplier may be awarded more than one lot. The framework is expected to run for three years from 11 December 2026 to 11 December 2029, with options to extend to 11 December 2031. The notice said the works will primarily be delivered through “a design-and-build approach”. Suppliers will undertake investigation, design, construction and handback activities, acting as Principal Contractor and, where applicable, Principal Designer. For projects at an early stage of development, Network Rail may instruct suppliers to undertake surveys, investigations, feasibility studies, outline design and detailed design services. However, appointment to undertake surveys or design activities will not guarantee the award of subsequent construction works. Following the Railway Industry Supplier Qualification Scheme (RISQS) becoming a Dynamic Market from 1 April 2026, Network Rail intends to invite all suppliers registered on RISQS and holding the relevant category codes to participate in the procurement process. Suppliers must hold the relevant RISQS codes covering Earthworks Drainage, Rock Netting and Rock Scaling, including the specified design, disposal, maintenance, installation and modification activities. A valid Network Rail Principal Contractor Licence is also a mandatory condition of participation and suppliers wishing to be considered must submit their response through RISQS by the deadline. Failure to respond will result in the organisation not being invited to the Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PSQ) stage. The tender notice is currently scheduled for publication on 4 September 2026 and the procurement covers Wales (UKL) and South West England (UKK) and has works as its main procurement category, with services as an additional category. Have your say or a new account to join the discussion.